Advances in understanding vegetable physiology: root systems as the next frontier in improving sustainable vegetable production

Description

Root systems are responsible for the uptake of water and nutrients needed to support crop growth and development, ameliorate the effects of other stressors and increase vegetable production. Roots are crucial for maintaining plant water status and meeting shoot transpirational demands as the leaves assimilate carbon (C). This chapter focusses on the potential of root traits to support increases in yield, maximize the effective use of resources and provide abiotic stress tolerance in vegetable crops. The chapter discusses root traits and molecular indicators regarding water and nutrient uptake, root-microbe interactions, abiotic stress and technologies for crop improvement. Finally, the chapter looks ahead to future research trends in this area.

Table of contents

1 Introduction 2 Roots and the effective use of resources 3 Roots for sustainable water management 4 Roots for sustainable nutrient management 5 Root biological traits for improved nutrient and water uptake 6 Roots and their role in other abiotic stresses 7 Future trends 8 Conclusion 9 Acknowledgements 10 Where to look for further information 11 References